Best Backpacks for Women (2020): Reviews & Comparison

May 26, 2020

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By
Keith Terrell

While many people believe that technology has really condensed the world that we live in, imagine that you are a photographer traveling on assignment. You will be required to carry your cameras, lighting equipment, chargers for batteries, a laptop for any immediate editing task, hard disks and more. Instead of having to carry around a full suitcase at any given time, most people opt for handy backpacks, many of which offer you a great variety in terms of capacity and special features to ensure that all your tech is safe!

This isn’t just limited to photographers and professionals who use a ton of gadgets. Any woman who travels to work or is planning a vacation in the near future will need to get her hands on a good quality backpack that will be with her and accommodate anything and everything - starting from books and stationery to gym clothes, laptops, snacks, a water bottle and more. With a large number of backpacks available for purchase in the market, it can be quite confusing to pick the right one for your needs.

To make the process easier, we will be going through some of the factors that make a good backpack, followed by a list of the best backpacks for women - but do women really need separate backpacks?

The North Face Women's Vault Backpack

If you are looking for a high-quality backpack that isn’t really overwhelming in terms of looks and design, the North Face Women’s Vault Backpack should be high on your list of women’s backpacks to check out. This is a sleek backpack but that doesn’t mean there won’t be enough space for all your personal items. Available in a range of colors that won’t disappoint, this is a backpack that you can turn to at any time.

Source: thenorthface.com

Features

Volume - 28 L

Weight - 1.96 pounds

Built using 600D polyester, 1200D polyester

Stitched foam back panel

Large main compartment

Organizational panel in secondary compartment

Exterior accessory clip

Stretch pockets on each side

Benefits

Large backpacks don’t always work well for the female body and this is one of the main reasons why this backpack is ideal. The size is large enough to accommodate all the things that you may need to carry with you on a regular basis.

The designers have laid a lot of emphasis on organization. The main compartment of the backpack has a laptop sleeve and the front compartment has a sleeve for your smartphone and tablet. The organizational panel also a place for your pens.

Comfort is key and the company has gone out of its way to ensure that you are comfortable even when you carry this backpack for long periods of time. The suspension system makes it highly functional and helps you stay cool regardless of what time of the year it is.

Pros

The FlexVent suspension system keeps you comfortable - and cool - all the time.

This is one of the most affordable good quality backpacks in the market.

There are plenty of compartments, including a laptop sleeve, for all your things.

The backpack is available in a large number of colors and designs.

Cons

This isn’t the perfect backpack for activities outdoors, but it will work if you need to make work.

The main compartment does not have any other pockets on the inside.

Verdict

While this isn’t a women’s backpack meant exclusively for outdoor activities, there is enough space - 28 liters - for a short hike and a separate place for your water bottle. The design is fairly simple but big on utility with the multiple compartments, exterior accessory clip, organizational panel and more. Whether it is to carry books for school, laptops, and equipment for work, or even a hike, this backpack will be with you in every situation.

Miss Fong Backpack for Women

The Miss Fong backpack for women is an interesting backpack that works really well for people who need a stylish option to carry to work or when they travel. While the backpack looks like it is made with leather, it is built using a specially processed material called polyurethane that gives the look without the cruelty. The bags are available in four different colors, including a navy, grey, brown and black.

Source: ebay.com

Features

Weigh 1.54 pounds

Built using polyurethane

USB portable charger

Laptop sleeve

Multiple pockets

Padded back panel and shoulder straps

Available in four colors

Benefits

This is one of the best looking backpacks on this list. The leather-like finish is chic and there is no glaring logo on the outside that could make it look tacky. If you are looking for a sophisticated backpack to carry to work or as cabin luggage for your next flight, this is a fantastic option to consider.

The back panel of the backpack, as well as the shoulder straps, are padded to ensure comfort. This makes it ideal for use in a range of settings. The large number of pockets, including a double-zippered main compartment, a smaller mesh compartment, a laptop sleeve and a number of other spaces, is helpful in keeping everything in place.

Pros

This is a very affordable backpack that will keep you within the budget.

If you are looking for a stylish backpack with a range of colors available, this is the one for you.

There are tons of compartments and pockets for everything, including a 14-inch laptop.

The fabric looks like leather but is more durable and gives you a degree of water resistance.

Cons

The straps are not the strongest and may not do well with extensive wear and tear.

There may be an odd smell when you first open the package.

Verdict

If you aren’t looking to shell out too much money but still want to keep the style quotient high, this is the right bag for you. There is enough space for all the things that you may carry around, including a laptop sleeve and multiple pockets for your phones, pens and other personal items. The material has been developed through special processing, which means that there could be an odd smell in the starting but that dissipates soon.

KJARAKÄR Backpack

Women’s backpacks differ from gender-neutral or men’s backpacks because of the emphasis that is laid on combining practicality, comfort and style. One of the best examples of these is the KJARAKÄR Backpack, which is available in five different colors so that there is something for everyone. The backpack is top-loading, which is very convenient. This pocket can also accommodate a laptop.

Source: ebay.com

Features

Made using polyester

Side snaps for additional volume

Pockets for water bottles

90-day money back guarantee

Benefits

This is a stylish backpack but it doesn’t let go of functionality in its pursuit to look good. There is tons of space for you to use in case you want it to double up as a diaper back. There are five different colors for you to choose from, which means that there is one for everyone.

There is one large main compartment, which has multiple small pockets for pens, pencils and smaller items. This pocket can fit a laptop with great ease. There are two pockets on either side of the backpack for your water bottles.

The backpack is extremely lightweight, which is important if you have to carry it around for long hours. This, however, doesn’t mean that it is going to be flimsy. It is built using polyester, which is sturdy for everyday use.

Pros

There is enough protection for all your personal items inside - including laptop - without getting bulky.

This is an affordable yet stylish backpack that is available in five different colors.

The backpack is very lightweight and showcases good resistance to water.

Cons

As the bag has magnetic snaps, they can wear off after some time of use.

There is a chemical-like smell emitted by the bag when you first get it.

Verdict

The KJARAKÄR Backpack is a fantastic option for women that are looking for a backpack to carry to school, work or even a short trip out of town. While it can be annoying that there is only one main compartment, there are a few additional pockets that will hold all the smaller items like pens, smartphones and more. The backpack is also large enough to house a laptop, which is important regardless of whether you are a student or working.

Roxy Women's Shadow Swell Backpack

If you enjoy bold patterns and colors that pop, the Shadow Swell Backpack from Roxy is not going to disappoint you. There is enough space for all your books and gadgets in the multiple pockets - two main pockets as well as a separate front pocket. If you think the prints are too much for you to carry to a formal environment, there are also some simpler designs and solid colors also available.

Source: roxy.com

Features

Two main compartments

Laptop sleeve with padding

Neoprene tablet sleeve

Media pocket lined with fleece

Organizer and key hook on the front pocket

Benefits

The Roxy backpack isn’t for the weak-hearted when it comes to design. While there are relatively lowkey designs also available, the vibrant colors and eye-catching patterns are what really make this backpack stand out from the rest.

There are multiple pockets, which include two main compartments. The larger one of these has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your gadget safe. The backpack also has a tablet sleeve and a fleece-lined media pocket. There is also a front pocket that has its own organizer for all the small things that can otherwise get lost.

Finally, the dimensions of this backpack work very well for people with smaller bodies. This means that even if you aren’t very tall, you will find this backpack very comfortable to use.

Pros

The backpacks are bright and attractive.

There is plenty of space in this 23-liter backpack to hold all your essentials.

The organizer is especially helpful when you have a lot of smaller things to store.

Cons

If you are looking for a bag for a formal setup, this may not be the one for you.

The zippers can sometimes cause an issue with some backpacks.

Verdict

If you love colors and want to use them as an outlet for showcasing your personality, the Roxy Women's Shadow Swell Backpack is an option for you to consider. Perfect for students that need a lot of space to carry their books and laptop, this backpack gives you tons of different compartments and pockets for everything under the sun. The main drawback is the colors again, which may not be appropriate for a formal work environment.

Heshe Women's Casual Leather Backpack

Not all backpacks for women are capable of providing you the same level of sophistication as the Heshe Women’s Casual Leather Backpack. Ideal for women who want to sport a beautiful leather backpack when they are out exploring a new city or just out for a meal with friends, this backpack is something that people on the street are going to stop and ask you about. Keep reading for everything you need to know about this backpack!

Source: ebay.com

Features

Top grain cowhide leather

Multiple pockets

Hidden back pocket

Weigh 1.89 pounds

Available in multiple colors

Benefits

This chic backpack harkens back to the 70s aesthetic with a minimalistic kind of design and a grainy leather finish. There are a couple of different colors and finishes offered, all of which make the product look more expensive than it actually is. The exterior is built using cowhide leather and the interiors are polyester.

There is one main compartment in the bag. You can stow a range of things like your tablet, books, smartphone and more in this section. There are also a bunch of different pockets and sections - with and without zippers - that increase the amount of storage you have at your disposal.

The straps on the backpack can be adjusted to make it comfortable for you. If you’d prefer a shoulder bag or sling, changing up the strap setting can change the entire bag.

Pros

This is a very stylish bag to carry around, especially because of the leather finish.

This is a multi-purpose backpack that can also act as a purse or a shoulder bag.

There is enough place to keep all your necessities like your tablet, smartphone, books, and more - even an umbrella.

Cons

This backpack is not built to accommodate a laptop, which can be a deal-breaker if you are using it for work.

The material used to build this backpack can seem a little stiff.

Verdict

If you prefer leather backpacks for the kind of sophistication they add to your everyday bag, the Heshe Women’s Casual Leather Backpack is definitely the one for you. While there are multiple pockets and compartments for all your personal items, a large laptop may not fit into this space, so choose accordingly.

Kenneth Cole Reaction Chelsea Women's Backpack

A functional bag doesn’t necessarily have to be bland and unattractive. The Kenneth Cole Reaction Chelsea Women’s Backpack is one that will be by your side whether you are on your way to work, out on a vacation, or even going to college. With a twill exterior and gold detailing, this bag can pull up your style quotient significantly, making you grab eyeballs wherever you go. A part of Kenneth Cole Reaction’s Chelsea luggage line, there are a number of chic color variants also available.

Source: kennethcole.com

Features

Built using polyester and twill

Gold zipper and details

Padded laptop sleeve

Padded tablet sleeve

Two side bottle holder pockets

Padded shoulder straps

Trolley strap

Weighs 2.15 pounds

Benefits

This is one of the most understated yet attractive women’s backpacks on this list. The exterior of the backpack is built with chevron-quilted polyester twill while the interior - in a contrasting color - is lined with tear-resistant materials. The gold details go a long way in upping your style quotient.

There is one main compartment with a tablet sleeve and a few other pockets for your things. Your laptop can be stashed in the separate pocket created for it at the back. The front compartment of the backpack has multiple zippered and non-zippered pockets where you can put your smartphone, documents, and more.

To make the backpack as comfortable for you as possible, the shoulder straps have been padded. An interesting addition is the trolley strap at the back, which can be of great use when you are traveling and want to hook your bag on top of your suitcase.

Pros

There is enough space in the backpack for your gadgets and books.

This is a very stylish bag that you can get at a very affordable price.

The trolley strap at the back is a very useful addition.

Cons

This bag is a little heavier than a lot of the other backpacks on this list.

If you need a lot of space and two large main compartments, this may not be the best.

S-ZONE Women Genuine Leather Backpack

S-ZONE is one of the leaders in the realm of leather backpacks because of the finesse with which the company works with leather. This particular backpack boasts of a classic, timeless design that will go from day to night, ensuring that you have all your essentials on you at all times. There are many different colors and finishes offered by the company so that there is something for everyone!

Source: ebay.com

Features

Genuine leather exterior

Polyester lining

Durable straps

Multiple pockets

Zipper protection

Weighs 1.7 pounds

Benefits

The design of this bag is fairly simple but you can be assured that it will never go out of style. The exterior is built using genuine cowhide leather that speaks volumes for the quality of construction. The lining of the backpack is made of polyester, which makes the overall product more sturdy.

There is one main compartment with a zipper that can house all your gadgets, books and other equipment. If your laptop is a 14-inch one or smaller, it will also fit into the backpack. There are two zippered exterior pockets, one of which is at the back for keeping cash and other valuables.

This backpack can be used for traveling and exploring new places, going to work or even class.

Pros

The design is very sleek and simple, which adds an air of chicness.

The backpack is put together using genuine leather with a polyester lining for sturdiness.

There are tons of pockets all over this backpack, including some hidden sections at the back.

Cons

The straps are quite narrow, which means they could be uncomfortable when the backpack is heavy.

Some of the brighter or darker colors could leave stains on your clothes when you sweat.

Verdict

If you are going to carry a backpack around the city or to work, you probably aren’t too comfortable using a regular cloth or polyester one that school kids turn to. In such situations, your best bet is a leather backpack with tons of pockets. The S-ZONE Women Genuine Leather Backpack gives you all of this and more. However, you must remember that this backpack is lacking a designated place for your laptop.

Michael Kors Women's Abbey Large Backpack

If you are looking for a high-end backpack that isn’t just an accessory but also gives you utility, the Michael Kors Abbey Large Backpack is something you can turn to without thinking twice. Available in four different finishes, the MK monogram is printed all over the bag without seeming tacky. Finally, space is no issue with this backpack!

Source: michaelkors.com

Features

Single main compartment

Black PVC signature

Adjustable shoulder straps

Organizational panel

Benefits

The biggest thing that this backpack has going for it is the way in which it has combined great quality - which MK is known for - with great utility. The material used to build this bag is fantastic, giving it the feel of luxury. At the same time, there is enough space to stash all your important personal items without the bagging feeling too bulky.

There are quite a few pockets all over the backpack, including side pockets for your water bottle, but at no time do you feel overwhelmed by the number of pockets. This can work for and against this backpack, but that completely depends on what you are seeking.

Pros

If you are looking for the quality of a high-end brand, this is it.

This is one of the largest Micheal Kors backpacks available, so there shouldn’t be a lack of space.

The exterior and the finish are very stylish.

Cons

This is the most expensive backpack on the list.

There aren’t enough pockets for storage.

Verdict

You can never go wrong with the design and quality that Michael Kors offers as a brand and with this backpack, you will not be short on space either. There are enough variants for you to choose from in terms of finish and when you sport this backpack when you are traveling or commuting to work, you can be assured of making a good impression.

Tommy Hilfiger Women's Backpack Julia

The Tommy Hilfiger Julia Backpack is the ideal option for people who want a stylish backpack with a touch of brown accents in the form of the logo and the straps. This backpack is larger than most of the high-end casual backpacks, which means it will be resourceful when you travel to exotic locations or just take the train to work.

Source: tommyhilfiger.com

Features

Made with 100% polyester

Synthetic lining

Single main compartment

Front pocket for organization

Benefits

If you prefer backpacks that don’t look too formal and showcase an element of fun, these Tommy Hilfiger backpacks are worth checking out. There are many different colors and patterns available to choose from, which means that you can pick one that suits your style.

The backpack is larger than you may have thought, which means that there will be enough space for you to load up all the necessities. There is only one main compartment, but it is large enough. The front pocket makes it easier to organize your things.

Pros

There are many different designs available.

The backpack is quite spacious, accommodating most things that you’d need to have on you.

The straps are adjustable, making them very comfortable.

Cons

If you are looking for a small backpack, this may be a little larger than you’d think.

The quality of zippers is not really in line with the high-end brand.

Verdict

The Tommy Hilfiger backpack comes in a wide range of patterns and colors, which means there is an alternative that will suit everyone. There is enough space to stash all personal items with ease and you’ll be comfortable when you carry it.

Conruser Women's Travel Backpack

The last backpack on this list of the best backpacks for women is the Conruser Women’s Travel Backpack. Available in a range of attractive colors and design variants, this triangular backpack may be just the thing you need if you find yourself on a tight budget. Overall, the backpack is lightweight and waterproof, which are two great features.

Source: ebay.com

Features

Built with Oxford fiber and polyester

Waterproof

Front zip pocket

Side convenience pocket

Rear anti-theft pocket

Adjustable shoulder straps

Benefits

The backpack is built using oxford fiber and polyester, which gives it a kind of sheen and also makes it waterproof for when you need to step out into a drizzle. As there are many colors and designs up for grabs, you can choose a vibrant one like this one or a simple black one, depending on your needs.

There is a good amount of space offered by the company. There is a front zip pocket that you can load from the front of the backpack, as well as a back anti-theft pocket for keeping your valuables safe. For example, if you are carrying your tablet or smartphone, stash inside this secret space and be assured of its security.

Pros

This is one of the most affordable backpacks on this list.

The rear anti-theft pocket is a great addition to the safety of your goods.

The unique triangular shape of the backpack makes for a comfortable carrying experience.

Cons

The overall look of the backpack isn’t as chic as you might like.

There is no space for a standard size laptop in the backpack.

Verdict

If you are looking for a relatively cheaper backpack that you can use on a regular basis, this women’s backpack may be the right one for you. While you may not be able to fit a laptop in this much space, a tablet, magazines, and books can fit with great ease.

Do Women Need Different Backpacks?

When it comes to designing different backpacks for women and men, it is easy to be under the misconception that the only difference is the exterior where men are given the dark, unappealing colors while women stick to bright colors and patterns. This is as far from the truth as possible.

The main reason why different backpacks are designed for women and men is the way in which the human body is built. In most cases, women are relatively smaller than men, who usually have larger shoulders and more upper body strength. The male torso is also larger than the female torso. This means that an average backpack that is designed keeping the male structure in mind will be inherently uncomfortable for women for multiple reasons.

First, a backpack designed for women’s comfort needs to be lighter and shorter in terms of length. In addition to this, the common J-shaped straps used for most backpacks can be quite uncomfortable for women, whose body works better with S-shaped straps. Finally, the factor that we discussed in the beginning - the look of the backpack - is also a criterion for differentiating between backpacks for men and women.

Questions to Ask Yourself Before Buying a Backpack for Women

Before you get to the list of the best backpacks for women, there are a couple of questions you must ask yourself. These questions will help you analyze what you really need from a backpack and whether the backpack you choose will be able to take care of those needs.

What Will the Backpack Be Carrying?

Different people have different needs that a backpack is supposed to fulfill. For example, you could be a college student who needs to carry around books for reference as well as a laptop to complete assignments. If you go to work out after classes, you will also need space to put your gym clothes, water bottle, and other equipment. Similarly, if you carry the bag to work, it may carry your planners, laptop, as well as other personal items. Bags meant for activities outdoors have to carry clothes, shoes, and equipment, which means they will be larger than most others.

Where Will It Be Used?

How a bag looks is not the only thing that matters. There are multiple bags that are great to look at but extremely uncomfortable when you need to travel or if they have to be taken out for a hike or trek. Practicality is key. If you will be out in the wilderness, you may want to ensure that the bag is waterproof and resistant to the forces of nature. In case the bag has to be taken to a formal work environment, it needs to be simple and not over the top. If it is used for travel, security features must be present.

What Does Your Budget Look Like?

Not everyone has the budget to blow off hundreds of dollars on a bag. However, you must also remember that a bag is priced on the higher side as the materials used are of better quality and the craftsmanship is superior. If you are looking for a backpack to travel or carry to work, there will probably be a ton of more affordable options for you to turn to. Many of these are reviewed later in this guide.

Things to Consider When Buying Women's Backpack

While buying a backpack may seem to be a fairly straightforward task, there are many different aspects that need to be brought into consideration when you are trying to make a decision. The most important of these aspects have been discussed below in some detail.

Capacity and Weight

While you may be tempted to think that the weight of a backpack is directly proportionate to its capacity, that isn’t always the case. If you are good at packing, even a small backpack with less capacity will be enough but the weight at the end is going to depend on how much you put in that backpack. Understand what you will be using the backpack for and then choose the right capacity for yourself.

Style

There are multiple styles of backpacks available. Some of these may be on the feminine side with patterns and designs - something that is traditionally considered women-like - while others may have a more gender-neutral kind of appeal. The backpack that you choose should be in line with your aesthetic, regardless of what conventional views of beauty dictate. You can choose a bold print like florals or even stick to solid, neutral colors. In other cases, you may be inclined towards picking a bag that is advertised as a men’s bag.

Compartments

Compartments are a key factor to keep in mind when you are looking for backpacks. While there are many options that come with just one large compartment, they are probably not suitable for you if you want to keep all your things safe. Backpacks for women are usually designed with more compartments, pockets and slots but there seems to be no particular reason for this. It does, however, make life so much easier if you want to know where exactly everything is in your backpack.

Place for Technology

If you are using the backpack for work or school, you may be required to carry around a laptop. Not every backpack caters for it but a separate pocket or compartment for the laptop - with padding - goes a long way in protecting your laptop from any external forces. There are backpacks that have separate pockets for your smartphone, tablet and all your chargers, which are especially helpful when you have a range of different gadgets to carry around - like most people do these days!

Resistance to Water

If you are going to be using the backpack for adventures in the outdoors, it needs to show resistance to water. While most backpacks will keep your things relatively safe from water, only the ones that have been built using materials that are water-resistant will keep your things completely dry. If you are getting a proper backpack meant for hiking, they may even offer an external cover that will protect your bag from rain or hail. Keep in mind that you may not need a 100% waterproof bag, but water resistance is important.

Comfort

As we mentioned earlier, women’s backpacks are designed to be different from backpacks for men, especially when it comes to the basic structure. While both stand to benefit from padding along the back and the shoulder straps, the shape of the straps will make a ton of difference when it comes to comfort. It may be wise to try out a few different styles to understand which one is the most comfortable. If you will be wearing the backpack for long periods of time, it needs to be comfortable.

Security

There are a few features that can help improve the security of your backpack. First, you must check for a strong zipper system. Flimsy zippers can be a deal-breaker, as they ruin the structural integrity of a backpack. There are also other security features that need to be looked into. For example, a combination lock is always helpful in keeping your belongings safe. Zippers within the compartments also make it tough for thieves to reach your valuables.

Price

Backpacks are available at different price points. You may send hundreds of dollars on an expensive backpack made out of exquisite materials but you can also purchase a more affordable backpack that is built with sturdy material and plenty of pockets. There is something available for all budgets if you look in the right place and know what exactly you need from your backpack.

Warranty

Warranty is an important factor to consider when you are purchasing a backpack. While some women’s backpacks come with a warranty of about one year, the more expensive and exclusive ones could also come with a lifetime warranty. The term lifetime warranty is sometimes misconstrued as forever, but it really just means a reasonable amount of time. Regardless, you must always check the warranty offered by the company when you pick up a backpack.

Conclusion

After going through this list of the best backpacks for women, you may find yourself even more confused than you were when you started your search for the perfect women’s backpack. That, however, doesn’t need to be the case, especially when you know your own needs before going into the process.

Everyone has different needs and what they want out of a backpack. If you are looking for a work backpack, some of the sleeker and more sophisticated backpacks from this list may work better. For time outside - whether it is hikes, treks or trips to the outdoors - you may want a waterproof bag that keeps all your personal belongings safe. For school, a sturdy backpack that can carry all your books and technology will be the best option. Keep these things in mind when you choose a backpack and you are bound to be happy with your small investment in the long run!